Improve Vaccination Rates Research Articles

An integrated approach to enhance vaccine uptake in chronic patients – the VacciNetwork project

Abstract Issue/problem Individuals with chronic illnesses are at a higher risk of infections and their complications. Vaccinations are crucial in reducing this risk and their integration in chronic care pathways can enhance vaccine uptake, but it requires a collaborative approach and increased awareness in care personnel, caregivers and patients. Description of the problem The Local Health Authority of Rome 2 (ASL Roma 2, with approx. 1.3 million residents) initiated an active promotion plan for recommended vaccinations in chronic patients in January 2023, and a Clinical Vaccinology Workbook was produced to guide healthcare workers in promoting vaccinations across various care settings. The plan aims to establish collaborative agreements with hospitals and territorial structures that manage these patients, integrating vaccination plans with clinical and healthcare pathways for a more holistic approach to chronic disease management, a model that could benefit similar populations globally. Results Data was extracted from administrative databases regarding vaccinations performed in 2022 and 2023 on fragile subjects, i.e., those with a marked ‘risk condition’, aged ≥18 years. The results showed that vaccine uptake was more than doubled (6675 vs. 2041; +227%). Notably, vaccinations rose among those with oncological-hematological diseases (+212%), asplenia (+185%), chronic kidney failure or on dialysis (+190%) and those with an HIV infection (+160%). Increases were also significant in other immunocompromised conditions (+194%). Lessons The practice underlines the importance of targeted vaccination programs within chronic care management. Collaborative healthcare frameworks can significantly improve vaccination rates, reducing the burden of infectious diseases in high-risk populations. These results underscore the potential applicability of such a model in other regions and countries, highlighting the universal relevance of integrated healthcare solutions. Key messages • Collaborative, integrated frameworks between clinical and vaccination services can represent a model for increasing vaccine uptake in chronic disease patients. • Strategic partnerships and education in healthcare settings can improve vaccination rates and contribute to more holistic chronic disease management.

Leveraging Social Marketing to Increase Vaccination Rates: A Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction Vaccinations are crucial for protecting individuals from preventable diseases, serving as a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding entire populations. Low vaccination rates can have devastating consequences, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases. Social marketing has had an increasing role to play in public health. This systematic review seeks to investigate social marketing effectiveness in boosting vaccination adherence. Methods A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library, using keywords “social marketing”, ‘campaigns”, “vaccination”, “vaccination uptake”. The search was limited to English-language studies, including studies discussing social marketing campaigns and its impact on vaccination uptake. Prior to inclusion, the studies were evaluated for relevance and applicability to the research question. Included studies were analysed for methodology, sample size, data collection methods, and key findings. Results Of 198 articles identified, 26 studies met inclusion criteria. All studies reported demonstrable improvement in vaccination adherence and hence higher vaccination rates with the use of social marketing campaigns. Targeted messaging on social media allows communication to be tailored to specific demographics and address their unique concerns. Community engagement combats vaccine hesitancy by dismantling misinformation and rebuilding trust. Additionally, these campaigns leverage social influence and mobilise communities to cultivate pro-vaccine attitudes. By addressing personal choice, knowledge gaps, and hesitancy, social marketing paves the way for greater vaccination uptake. Conclusions Social marketing has been proven to be an effective tool in promoting vaccination adherence in public health. As vaccination remains a critical aspect of public health, the continued use of social marketing interventions is essential for improving vaccination rates and ultimately enhancing overall population health. Key messages • Social marketing campaigns lead to higher vaccination rates across various populations. • By addressing vaccine hesitancy, social marketing paves the way for increased vaccination uptake.

The potential role of perceived neighborhood social cohesion on COVID-19 vaccination uptake among individuals aged 50 and older: Results from the Korean Community Health Survey.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical importance of vaccination in controlling infectious diseases. While previous research has identified social cohesion as a potential facilitator of health behaviors, empirical studies exploring its direct impact on COVID-19 vaccination rates, especially across different age groups, remain limited. This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2021 Korean Community Health Survey, a nationally representative survey conducted in South Korea. The analysis focused on adults aged 50 and older, categorizing them into two age groups (50-64 and ≥65). We investigated the association between perceived neighborhood social cohesion and COVID-19 vaccination status, controlling for socio-economic status, health behaviors, and concerns related to COVID-19. Statistical analysis was conducted using complex sample multiple logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders. The study included 135,352 participants, with an analysis showing that in the age group ≥65, higher levels of perceived neighborhood social cohesion were significantly associated with increased vaccination uptake (aOR for trust between neighbors: 1.200, 95% CI: 1.058-1.362; aOR for mutual assistance among neighbors: 1.491, 95% CI: 1.312-1.695). Interestingly, these associations were not significant in the 50-64 age group. Additionally, satisfaction with healthcare services was associated with higher vaccination uptake in both age groups (aOR: 1.106, 95% CI: 1.004-1.219 for 50-64; aOR: 1.306, 95% CI: 1.160-1.471 for ≥65). Our findings suggest that perceived neighborhood social cohesion plays a crucial role in influencing COVID-19 vaccination uptake among older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above. These results indicate that health policies aimed at enhancing social cohesion may effectively improve vaccination rates, especially among the elderly. Future research should explore the impact of social cohesion on other age groups and assess the causal relationships in longitudinal studies.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Parents to Childhood Immunization: A Cross-Sectional Study in Gandaki Province of Nepal

Introduction: Childhood immunization is one of the most cost effective public health interventions to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases and improve child survival. In Nepal, the national immunization program aims to ensure that all children receive the recommended vaccines, yet challenges remain in achieving universal coverage. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of parents towards immunization play a critical role in vaccine uptake. This study was designed to assess their understanding, attitudes, and behaviors toward vaccinating their children. Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted from April 22, 2023, to October 2023 GP Koirala National Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Hospital, Tanahun, Gandaki Nepal, involving 227 parents of children under 18 months. The participants were selected through purposive sampling from Pediatric OPD of this hospital. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data about their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding childhood immunization. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 with descriptive statistics, with results expressed as frequencies and percentages and Chi-square tests employed to identify associations between demographic variables and KAP levels. Results: The study revealed that 73.6% of parents had good knowledge about childhood immunization, recognizing the importance of vaccines and being aware of the vaccination schedule. However, only 64.3% of parents demonstrated a favorable attitude toward immunization, reflecting mixed perceptions about the necessity of vaccines and their safety. Additionally, 60.3% of parents exhibited good practices, indicating that while a majority ensured their children received vaccines, there were still gaps in adherence to the full immunization schedule. Demographic factor such as education level significantly influenced KAP scores. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for continuous efforts to enhance parental knowledge, improve attitudes, and reinforce good practices regarding childhood immunization in Nepal. Although the majority of parents showed a reasonable understanding of vaccines, the discrepancies in attitudes and practices suggest that targeted interventions, including education and outreach, are necessary to improve vaccination rates. Addressing these gaps is crucial to ensuring complete immunization coverage and safeguarding children from preventable diseases. Keywords: Childhood immunization, parental knowledge, vaccination practices, public health, vaccine uptake.

Factors Associated With Repeat Pediatric Influenza Vaccination Among Inconsistent Vaccinators.

Promoting consistent vaccination practices may help improve suboptimal influenza vaccination rates. This study evaluated the prevalence and correlates of repeat influenza (flu) vaccination among children who had previously received the vaccine inconsistently. An online survey study was conducted in 2022 among parents of commercially insured children ages 3 to 19 years who were previously inconsistently vaccinated. Of 317 respondents, 85% reported that their child received a flu vaccine in the 2021 to 2022 flu season. Among these parents, 61% reported concern that their child would get sick from flu as the most important reason for vaccinating. Repeat vaccination was less likely among parents who reported that school/daycare requirements were a reason for vaccinating in the prior season (odd ratio [OR] = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.05-0.55). Our findings suggest that school policies may improve vaccination rates among inconsistent vaccinators.

The individual and ecological characteristics of parental COVID-19 vaccination decisions

Vaccination is a highly effective method to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate severe disease. In Germany, adult vaccination rates are relatively high at 85.5%, but rates are significantly lower for adolescents (69.6%) and children (20.0%). This discrepancy indicates that not all vaccinated parents choose to vaccinate their children. Analyzing data from a January 2022 online survey of 1,819 parents with children and adolescents, we explore the socio-economic factors influencing parents’ willingness to vaccinate themselves and their children. Our results show that individuals who vote for either side of the political extremes are less likely to vaccinate their children. This pattern is particularly strong for voters on the far right. In addition, we find that better educated parents are more likely to vaccinate both themselves and their children. Parents who vaccinate both themselves and their children demonstrate greater confidence in the vaccine’s effectiveness, while those who vaccinate only themselves are often motivated by a desire to regain personal freedoms. These insights highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to address specific concerns and improve vaccination rates among children and adolescents.

Identifying and supporting vaccine champions in pediatric primary care: a qualitative interview study.

Implementation science research identifies clinical champions as instrumental in aligning healthcare professionals' (HCPs) behavior with practice guidelines for delivering health services, including vaccinations. However, we know relatively little about identifying or supporting champions. To characterize who vaccine champions are, what they do, and how to support their work in pediatric primary care. In 2022, we interviewed a purposive sample of peer-nominated or self-identified vaccine champions (n=20) and HCPs who worked with vaccine champions (n=4). We thematically analyzed qualitative data. Vaccine champions' defining characteristics were firsthand primary care experience, whether as providers or nursing staff, and a strong belief in vaccinations as uniquely effective tools for primary prevention. Participants noted these beliefs were "part of the DNA" of specialties like pediatrics and infectious disease, where they perceived champions as especially common. Being "insatiable in their quest for knowledge," champions primarily conceptualized their role as understanding and sharing complex information and performance metric data related to vaccine administration. Champions' role in leading other implementation strategies, such as communication training, was more peripheral. Champions reported that dedicated time and staff support helped them "go above and beyond" to improve vaccination rates. Our findings suggest that vaccine champions can be found among providers and nursing staff with deep clinical experience and commitment to primary prevention through vaccination, including through providing vaccine education to colleagues. Healthcare systems can allocate resources to support champions as educators, while exploring opportunities to extend their role in other implementation strategies to improve vaccination rates.

Reflections on the positioning and implementation pathways of adult vaccine prescriptions

The innovation of integrating medical treatment and prevention mechanisms is a key task deployed by the government, aiming to promote the construction of a Healthy China and address the prevalent "treatment over prevention" mindset in healthcare services and society. Vaccination is an effective strategy for preventing and controlling infectious diseases; however, adult vaccination rates in China remain low due to insufficient awareness and enthusiasm among the public and healthcare professionals. In recent years, various regions have begun to explore the model of physicians in medical institutions prescribing vaccines to improve vaccination rates. This article analyzes the positioning, current implementation status, and challenges of vaccine prescriptions, and proposes recommendations advocating policy formulation, improving service models and supporting measures, improving funding mechanisms, and strengthening publicity and education to promote the widespread implementation and effectiveness of vaccine prescriptions.

Classification of an Individual's Vaccination Status Using Ensemble Hard Voting Classifier

Vaccination is a proactive medical immunization procedure where an inactivated form of a disease-causing agent (such as a virus) is administered to boost the body's defense systems. Efficient management of vaccination status is crucial in healthcare management, disease eradication, community immunity ("herd immunity"), disease prevention, and global health security. Ensuring precise monitoring and validation of an individual's vaccination status is indispensable, especially in the context of emerging diseases and epidemics. This study evaluates the likelihood of individuals obtaining vaccination for the H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu vaccine. Ensemble methods combine the predictions of multiple base classifiers to enhance overall performance. One such method, the hard voting classifier, aggregates the votes from each base classifier and selects the class with the majority vote as the final prediction. This approach leverages the strengths of different classifiers, reducing the risk of individual model biases and improving generalization using metrics such as precision, recall, accuracy, and F1-score are employed to assess the system's effectiveness. The results demonstrate how data-driven methods can address population wellness and improve vaccination rates using an ensemble method. The proposed ensemble hard voting classifier achieved accuracies of 0.905 and 0.907 on the H1N1 and seasonal vaccine datasets, respectively. Using an ensemble approach like the hard voting classifier enhances prediction accuracy and robustness, ultimately leading to better decision making in public health initiatives.

A guide to global access to HPV vaccination to all women in low- and middle-income countries; a minireview of innovation and equity.

Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HV), and accounts for more than 311,000 preventable deaths annually, with 85% occurring in low-and middle-income countries. Despite being preventable through screening and screening, significant barriers to implementing HPV vaccination persist in developing nations. This review study aims to identify these barriers and propose innovative, evidence-based solutions to improve vaccination rates and reduce cervical cancer mortality. A systematic review search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews. Keywords related to HPV vaccination barriers and implementation strategies in developing countries were used. Relevant demonstration projects, pilot studies, and evidence-based research articles were reviewed. Identifiable barriers to a successful vaccine implementation program in a developing country include vaccine costs, societal, cultural resistance, misinformation, logistical challenges in vaccine delivery, and inadequate human resources. Solutions to these barriers include a subsidized vaccine pricing, community sensitization, education and well-trained media professionals to dispel misinformation, and partnerships with both public and private sector for efficient vaccine distribution. These findings highlight critical barriers that impede HPV vaccination efforts in developing countries and offers practical solutions to overcome these challenges. This aggregate of data can help inform future developing countries' implementation programs to further the World Health Assembly mission to vaccinate 90% of eligible girls globally by 2030.

Optimizing influenza vaccination among oncology patients through quality improvement cycles.

285 Background: Influenza poses significant risks to cancer patients, who are especially vulnerable due to immunosuppression caused by both their disease and treatment. (Cooksley et al., 2005) Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Jefferson Health (SKCC)’s Quality Improvement (QI) initiative aimed to increase influenza vaccination rates among adult cancer patients in our Center City clinic from October 2023 to March 2024. At baseline in the 2022-2023 flu season, 49% of our patients had a documented vaccination against influenza, leaving most of our patient population at increased risk for influenza infection. Methods: A series of four Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were implemented over the course of the vaccination season. Cycle 1 collected baseline data on vaccination status via electronic health records (EHRs) and identified gaps in patient knowledge and vaccine hesitancy. Cycle 2 trained medical assistants (MAs) to engage in effective vaccination conversations, emphasizing the use of presumptive communication techniques and the reconciliation of immunization records in EHRs. Cycle 3 integrated patient education materials on vaccination in the clinical encounter. Cycle 4 scaled assessment protocols across teams. Results: Cumulatively, 68% (2,592/3,824) of unique oncology patients had a documented influenza vaccination by the completion of the season in March 2024. Integration of vaccine reconciliation into the MA workflow was the iteration that led to the biggest increase in vaccination rate among the PDSA cycles tested. We surpassed our initial aim for the season (59%) in this metric. Conclusions: The QI project at SKCC demonstrates that layered strategies involving both patients and care teams can improve vaccination rates among adult cancer patients. Integration of vaccine assessment into clinic workflows was an effective tactic. Future efforts will focus on replicating these successes with other vaccines. Rates of influenza vaccination by PDSA cycle. Cycle # Date Cycle Description Outcome Metric: Cumulative Vaccination Rate (%) 1 Oct 2023 Provider perception survey of vaccination knowledge 65 2 Nov 2023 Integration of vaccine reconciliation in MA workflow 69 3 Dec 2023 Integration of patient education materials to clinical encounter 70 4 Jan 2024 – Mar 2024 Scaling of updated workflows to entire clinic 68

Optimizing Protection Against HPV-Related Cancer: Unveiling the Benefits and Overcoming Challenges of HPV Vaccination.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is an underutilized tool in cancer prevention. HPV vaccine completion rates in adolescents age 13 to 15 years remain low at 59%. The HPV vaccine can prevent more than 90% of cases of cancer caused by HPV, including cervical, oropharyngeal, anal, penile, vulvar, and vaginal. HPV vaccine is very safe and effective, as demonstrated by numerous large-scale studies. Practice-based strategies can improve vaccination rates, such as having providers give a strong presumptive recommendation for the vaccine, using motivational interviewing for hesitant families, and using electronic health record reminders to prompt providers to offer it, among other interventions. Offering HPV vaccine starting at age 9 years is another evidence-based strategy to improve HPV vaccine completion rates, which has been shown to be acceptable to both providers and parents. [Pediatr Ann. 2024;53(10):e372-e377.].

The Effectiveness of Interventions Targeting Adolescents in HPV Vaccination-A Scoping Review.

Adolescents are the target group for HPV vaccination. Studies that examine factors influencing acceptability among adolescents and interventions aimed at improving knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, intentions, and, most importantly, vaccination rates are less common than those addressing parents or healthcare professionals. The specialized literature was searched for studies evaluating the impact of various interventions on adolescents. In the final analysis, 41 studies were included (35 original studies and 6 reviews). Educational interventions increased adolescents' knowledge scores in the selected studies. Peer education proved highly effective in rapidly and significantly improving knowledge about HPV. Additionally, multicomponent interventions generated awareness and knowledge that persisted for months after the interventions. HPV vaccine uptake increased following educational interventions in 11 out of the 14 studies that evaluated this outcome; studies presenting multicomponent interventions also proved effective in improving vaccination rates. Higher HPV vaccine series completion was reported following a reminder system strategy. Interventions directed at adolescents, combined with strategies involving parents and healthcare professionals, can play an important role in improving HPV vaccination rates. Educated adolescents must be involved in decisions about their own health and can be a valuable source of information for their peers and parents.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of COVID-19: Strategies to Increase Vaccine Confidence and Improve Vaccination Rates in the United States.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on every individual in the United States. The launch of the COVID-19 vaccines is estimated to have averted millions of deaths and reduced over 18 million COVID-19-related hospitalizations. In September 2023, the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine, which includes a monovalent component that corresponds to the omicron variant XBB.1.5, reflecting the predominant circulating variant at the time of strain selection, was approved and was recommended for use in all people ≥ 6 months of age. Despite this recommendation, the US uptake of the updated COVID-19 vaccines over the 2023-2024 season has been far from optimal, placing many people at unnecessary risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. This paper provides an overview of the current state of COVID-19 in 2023-2024 and barriers to vaccine uptake. With the continued evolution of the virus, the potential for more virulent variants, reduced public acceptance of vaccination, and the potential barriers that contributed to low vaccine uptake are explored to provide solutions for improving COVID-19 protection for future seasons.

Digital Gamification Tool (Let's Control Flu) to Increase Vaccination Coverage Rates: Proposal for Algorithm Development.

Influenza represents a critical public health challenge, disproportionately affecting at-risk populations, including older adults and those with chronic conditions, often compounded by socioeconomic factors. Innovative strategies, such as gamification, are essential for augmenting risk communication and community engagement efforts to address this threat. This study aims to introduce the "Let's Control Flu" (LCF) tool, a gamified, interactive platform aimed at simulating the impact of various public health policies (PHPs) on influenza vaccination coverage rates and health outcomes. The tool aligns with the World Health Organization's goal of achieving a 75% influenza vaccination rate by 2030, facilitating strategic decision-making to enhance vaccination uptake. The LCF tool integrates a selection of 13 PHPs from an initial set proposed in another study, targeting specific population groups to evaluate 7 key health outcomes. A prioritization mechanism accounts for societal resistance and the synergistic effects of PHPs, projecting the potential policy impacts from 2022 to 2031. This methodology enables users to assess how PHPs could influence public health strategies within distinct target groups. The LCF project began in February 2021 and is scheduled to end in December 2024. The model creation phase and its application to the pilot country, Sweden, took place between May 2021 and May 2023, with subsequent application to other European countries. The pilot phase demonstrated the tool's potential, indicating a promising increase in the national influenza vaccination coverage rate, with uniform improvements across all targeted demographic groups. These initial findings highlight the tool's capacity to model the effects of PHPs on improving vaccination rates and mitigating the health impact of influenza. By incorporating gamification into the analysis of PHPs, the LCF tool offers an innovative and accessible approach to supporting health decision makers and patient advocacy groups. It enhances the comprehension of policy impacts, promoting more effective influenza prevention and control strategies. This paper underscores the critical need for adaptable and engaging tools in PHP planning and implementation. RR1-10.2196/55613.

Understanding herpes zoster vaccine hesitancy and information asymmetry: a qualitative study in China.

Herpes zoster is more prevalent among the older adult due to the age-related immune decline, leading to significant pain and complications. Although vaccination effectively prevents viral infections, vaccine hesitancy remains a major barrier to achieving high vaccination rates.To address this, we conducted a qualitative survey using Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants Matrix and 5C model to understand and improve vaccination rates in this group. Descriptive qualitative research design based on the philosophical underpinnings of naturalistic inquiry and purposive sampling methodology was conducted on adults aged 50 and above, as well as community health workers. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth personal interviews. The interview outline was constructed following a comprehensive review of the literature and consideration of the theoretical framework. Seventeen adults over 50 years and four community healthcare workers were included in this study. The study found that information asymmetry in immunization planning was evident at all stages of vaccine supply, dissemination and demand. The main manifestations included limited access to authoritative information, insufficient community awareness of herpes zoster as a route of vaccination, insufficient vocational training, significant gaps in vaccine knowledge, and high levels of complacency among individual residents. Herpes zoster vaccine hesitancy is prevalent among middle-aged and older adults in China due to information asymmetry, vaccine complacency, inadequate community services, and other multiple layers of factors. Public health strategies should aim to reduce cognitive biases and information gaps by disseminating diverse and credible vaccine information through social media, medical institutions, and offline channels to promote higher vaccination rates.

Factors Influencing Older People's Intentions to Vaccinate.

Vaccination is crucial in reducing the spread of disease and improving overall patient mortality. Limited information exists regarding pharmacist accessibility outside traditional medical settings or impact on older patients' intention to vaccinate. This study aimed to examine patient perceptions regarding pharmacist accessibility and vaccination intention. Researchers used a quantitative research method of older people from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. A survey was given to community-dwelling older people who attended different vaccine clinics. The survey included 10 questions describing reasons for not receiving vaccines in the past, how likely they are to receive vaccines if administered at community events, and the importance of having easy access to vaccines. For Likert-type items, a 5-point scale was used. The surveys were collected electronically and anonymously from several community events. Aggregate data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. One hundred seventy-eight responses were collected. The average age of participants was 75 years, and 70.8% were females. Of the respondents, 44.9% preferred to receive vaccines at a community center, 17.4% at the doctor's office, 4.5% at a clinic, and 9.6% at a sporting event like a boxing match. Men were more likely to receive a vaccine at a sporting event, while women were more likely to be interested in receiving a vaccine at a community center (P < 0.05). Respondents somewhat agreed (median = 4, interquartile range = 3-5) that they do not have transportation to places with vaccines. Age was significantly and negatively correlated with educational attainment (P < 0.001). However, as participants' ages increased, they were significantly more likely to have a belief that vaccines do not work (P = 0.011). The study addressed how pharmacists should consider more community outreach events in convenient locations, like community centers, for older people to improve vaccination rates.

Use of the PRECEDE-PROCEED Model in Piloting Vaccine Promotion and Infection Self-Protection: Intervention Development and Effectiveness Examination.

This study aimed to tailor and pilot a health education program using the PRECEDE-PROCEED model to promote vaccination and enhance self-protective behaviors against COVID-19 in Hong Kong populations. Quasi-experimental study. Phases 1-4 of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model were used to identify the needs for COVID-19 prevention. Strategies to address predisposing, reinforcing, and enabling factors in the PRECEDE-PROCEED model were developed, and an intervention package was generated thereafter. A pre-post experimental study was conducted among 50 participants to preliminarily assess the effects of the intervention based on Phases 5 and 8 of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model. The 3-month intervention package contained 16 health education videos, 36 health tips, individual consultations, regular reminders of vaccination, incentive of anti-epidemic packages, and vaccine booking services. By the third month, 33 participants took a new dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and 5 participants withdrew. The vaccination rate for new dose achieved 73.3% (95% CI: 58.06-85.40%). Compared with the Hong Kong population in the same period, our study demonstrated higher increase in vaccination rate (9.97 vs. 1.36 doses per 1000 person-days). The percentage of early testing in personal and family level increased to 86.7% and 84.4%, respectively (both p < 0.05). For correct mask wearing and hand washing, the scores increased from a baseline score of 9.1 ± 1.6 and 4.9 ± 1.3 to 9.5 ± 1.0 and 5.3 ± 1.2, respectively (both p < 0.05). The application of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model effectively facilitated the stepwise development, implementation, and evaluation of a health education program for improving vaccination rates and fostering self-protective behaviors against infections.

A Survey on Population Perceived Factors Influencing COVID-19 Vaccination in South Indian Districts.

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to global public health, necessitating the rapid development and distribution of vaccines. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, vaccination uptake remains varied across different regions and populations. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination uptake in South Indian districts, with a focus on understanding public perceptions. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey methodology, data were collected from a representative sample of residents in selected South Indian districts. The survey explored a range of variables including demographic characteristics, knowledge and awareness about COVID-19 vaccines, perceived risks and benefits, trust in healthcare systems, and sources of vaccine-related information. The preliminary analysis indicates that vaccine uptake is significantly influenced by factors such as age, educational level, and socioeconomic status. High levels of vaccine hesitancy were associated with misinformation, concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, and distrust in government and healthcare authorities. Conversely, individuals with higher education levels and those who received accurate information from trusted sources showed a greater willingness to get vaccinated. Social and cultural beliefs also played a crucial role in influencing vaccination attitudes, stressing the need for the importance of culturally sensitive health communication strategies.The study investigates a range of factors, including demographic characteristics such as age, gender, education level, and socio-economic status, as well as psychological and social determinants like the perceived risk of COVID-19, trust in vaccines, and the influence of misinformation. This study underscores the need for targeted public health interventions to address vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccination rates in South India. By identifying the key factors influencing vaccination decisions, policymakers and healthcare providers can develop more effective communication and outreach programs tailored to the unique needs and concerns of the population. Enhanced efforts in education, transparency, and community engagement are essential to fostering greater public trust and achieving higher vaccination coverage.

Attitudes towards the Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine among Children's Guardians: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study in Poland.

This cross-sectional survey study aimed to assess the attitudes and knowledge of children's guardians in Poland towards tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and its vaccine, as well as to compare these attitudes to those regarding other infectious diseases and their vaccines. Data were collected through anonymous questionnaires, both paper-based and online, from 3030 respondents across Poland, with the majority being from TBE-endemic areas. The survey included questions on demographic characteristics, general vaccination beliefs, and specific perceptions of TBE and its vaccine. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between willingness to vaccinate against TBE and factors such as general vaccination attitudes, information sources, vaccine safety ratings, and perceptions of disease severity. Results indicated that guardians from larger cities and those with fewer children were more likely to vaccinate. Additionally, parents who supported general vaccinations were significantly more willing to vaccinate against TBE. The study concludes that enhancing public awareness about the safety and importance of the TBE vaccine, especially in endemic regions, is crucial for improving vaccination rates. Targeted public health interventions addressing misconceptions and providing accurate information are essential strategies to increase TBE vaccine uptake and protect children from this serious disease.